Quinn Ewers, the Texas Longhorns' quarterback, faces a pivotal decision as he evaluates his future in football. With college players now able to earn substantial sums through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and the upcoming 2025 pay-for-play era, Ewers must weigh the benefits of staying in college versus entering the NFL draft. The recent changes in financial opportunities have made this decision more complex than ever before. After two consecutive losses in the College Football Playoff, Ewers finds himself at a crossroads where his draft stock has dropped, but his potential earnings in college have skyrocketed. This article explores the factors influencing Ewers' decision and the lucrative offers awaiting him if he chooses to remain in college.
The landscape of college football has shifted dramatically, especially for top-tier athletes like Ewers. In previous years, players with diminished draft prospects would have faced significant financial setbacks. However, the advent of NIL deals and the impending pay-for-play system in 2025 have transformed the equation. Ewers, once projected as a first-round pick, is now likely to be selected in the mid-to-late rounds of the 2024 NFL draft. Despite this drop, he stands to gain far more financially by staying in college for another year. Teams like Ohio State, Georgia, and Southern California are reportedly ready to offer Ewers multi-million dollar deals, making it a compelling option for him to explore.
Moreover, the risk of injury is no longer a decisive factor in Ewers' decision-making process. Players can now secure disability insurance policies worth millions, mitigating concerns about career-ending injuries. This safety net, combined with the lucrative one-year contracts available in college, makes the choice even clearer. Ewers could potentially earn upwards of $4 million in a single season, nearly quadrupling what he might receive as a mid-round NFL draft pick. The opportunity to choose his next team and potentially play for a championship-ready squad adds further appeal to staying in college.
In contrast, entering the NFL early presents limited immediate benefits for Ewers. Unless he is a guaranteed first-round pick, which is unlikely given his current draft projections, there is little financial advantage to leaving college prematurely. Even second-round picks like Will Levis earned significantly less than what Ewers could command in college. By remaining in college, Ewers not only secures a higher short-term income but also positions himself to improve his draft stock for the 2026 NFL draft. This strategic move allows him to maximize his earnings while enhancing his long-term prospects in professional football.
Ultimately, the decision for Quinn Ewers comes down to maximizing his financial potential and improving his chances for success. Staying in college offers him the best path forward, both financially and competitively. With multiple high-profile programs vying for his talents and the promise of substantial earnings through NIL deals, Ewers is poised to make a well-informed and lucrative choice. As the deadline to declare for the NFL draft approaches, the college football market awaits, ready to welcome him with open arms and deep pockets.